Cleaning the oven doesn’t have to be a messy, time-consuming battle. Nana’s simple method turns what most people dread into a quick, chemical-free routine using only three everyday items: a dishwashing pod, a heatproof casserole dish, and water. Start by preheating your oven to a gentle 200°F (93°C). Fill the dish with water, drop in a dishwashing pod, and set it on the middle rack.
Let the oven steam for about an hour. The low heat combines with the cleaning agents from the pod, softening built-up grease and loosening stubborn residue. Once the cycle is done, switch the oven off and allow it to cool slightly. Then wipe away the grime with a damp cloth — no harsh scrubbing or strong odors needed. Most stains lift easily, leaving the interior fresh and spotless.
If you’re dealing with heavier buildup, repeat the process or use a soft brush for targeted cleaning. The best part? This approach avoids toxic fumes, keeps your kitchen family-safe, and costs next to nothing. Doing it once a month prevents grease from accumulating, improves cooking efficiency, and lowers fire risks — all while saving you the headache of commercial oven cleaners.
Nana’s clever trick proves that sometimes the most effective solutions are the simplest ones. By using gentle heat and a little steam, you turn your oven into its own cleaning assistant. In less than ninety minutes, you’ll have a gleaming, fresh-smelling oven — and the satisfying feeling of having outsmarted one of the toughest kitchen chores.